Marsh Woundwort

This genus of about 300 species of annuals and perennials occurs in a wide range of habitats in northern temperate regions. Various species are grown as ornamentals, including Stachys palustris, which is an attractive plant for bog gardens and the margins of ponds. Stachys officinalis (betony) naturalizes well in European wildflower meadows, and has several cultivars that make excellent border plants. In Anglo-Saxon times betony was an important medicinal and magical herb, and well known as a cure for headaches. According to Culpeper, "Antonius Musa, physician to the Emperor Augustus Caesar, wrote a peculiar book of the virtues of this herb; and among other virtues saith of it, that it preserves the liver and bodies of men from the danger of epidemical diseases, and from witchcraft also" (The English Physician Enlarged, 1653). A total of 47 different complaints were listed that betony would apparently cure. Both S. officinalis and S. palustris contains tannins and alkaloids; in addition, S palustris contains allantoin, as in Symphytum officinale (See, Comfrey). Stachys, "ear of corn" or "spike", refers to the arrangement of flowers on the stem.

Rhizomatous perennial with tuberous roots and faintly aromatic, lanceolate, hairy leaves, to 7cm (3in) long. Pale lilac flowers, with darker markings are borne in whorled spikes in summer.


Common Name:
Marsh Woundwort
Botanical Name:
Stachys palustris
Genus:
Stachys
Family:
Lamiaceae
Native Location:
Europe
Cultivation:
Well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Stachys palustris needs damp to wet soil, or water to 8cm (3in) deep.
Propagation:
By seed sown in autumn or spring; by division in spring.
Harvest:
Flowering plants are cut in summer and dried for infusions, liquid extracts, and tinctures.
Height:
1m (3ft)
Width:
30-45cm (12-18in)
Hardiness:
Z4-8
Parts Used:
Whole plant
Properties:
An astringent, antiseptic herb with an unpleasant smell. It relaxes spasms, controls bleeding, and promotes healing.
Medicinal Uses:
Internally for gout, cramp, vertigo, and hemorrhage. Externally for minor injuries.
Bibliography:
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited Pg 374